Sydney cycleways accessible by public transport

Whether you’re after a breezy cycle through Centennial Park or want to tackle the 35 km cycling pathways at Sydney Olympic Park – here are five great Sydney cycling options that you can access by public transport.

1. Cooks River

Also known as the Bay to Bay Cycle and Walkway, The Cooks River Cycleway is a 23 km bike path that starts at Botany Bay and winds it way alongside the Cooks River to Sydney Olympic Park in Homebush.

There are several different routes to access the Cooks River Cycleway. Settlers Park in Ryde, Gough Whitlam Park in Earlwood and Sydney Olympic Park’s Bicentennial Park are all possible starting points. The track is well signposted too, so don’t worry about getting lost or confused.

The track is safe, flat and family friendly and is suitable for all ages.

If at any point the challenge becomes a little too much, there are plenty of train stations within a short 5 -10 minute detour from the path.

A tip from us: all Sydney Trains allow you to take your bikes onboard.

Location: The Cooks River Cycleway

Time: The cycleway is 23 km in length but the time spent on the track will depend on your speed and if you stop for lunch.

Getting there:To get there by public transport, its easiest to start the cycle at Gough Whitlam Park in Earlwood which can be accessed from Tempe Station. From there follow the cycleway until you arrive at Sydney Olympic Park’s Bicentennial Park. After that it’s just a short ride to Sydney Olympic Park Station.

2. Centennial Park

Centennial Park is one of the most popular places for Sydney cycling, it sees around 750,000 cycling visits a year.

The park has a long cycling history, its Cyclists Carriage opening in 1900, five years before cars were allowed to enter. Today the relationship is stronger than ever, with dedicated pathways and smooth cycle lanes right around the parklands.

You don’t have to be an experienced cyclist either, there’s also a learner’s cycleway for first-timers who want to take it slow and are still getting to grips with riding a bike.

Getting there: If traveling with your bike, the park is an 8 minute ride from Bondi Junction Station. If you are going tohire a bike in the park you can head here on the bus. Take bus route 339, 372, 374 or 376 from Central Station, Eddy Ave (Stand B) to Alison Rd Opp Doncaster Ave.

3. Sydney Olympic Park

This Sydney cycleway spans an impressive 35 km around the Sydney Olympic Parklands. With such a huge area to cycle around, there’s plenty to see and do. Take the time to seek out wildlife refuges, discover mangrove boardwalks, see some outdoor art and even visit a shipwreck.

Firstly there’s the Olympic Circuit, which will take you around the iconic Olympic venues such as ANZ Stadium, the Olympic Cauldron and the Games Memories poles. It’s a 7.6 km ride and will take you around 50 minutes to complete. This easy ride is suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up.

The second option is the River Heritage Circuit which will take you down along the scenic Parramatta River, through the Newington Armory heritage precinct and then into the surrounding woodlands.

The highlight here is Haslam’s Creek Marker, a spiralling trail that will lead you to some of the best panoramic views of the Park and city skyline. The total distance is approximately 11 km and will take you around 70 minutes at a leisurely pace. It’s best suited to adults and children aged 7 and up.

Finally, if you want to unwind while being surrounded by nature then Parklands Circuit is a must. It starts at the tranquil Bicentennial Park and will take you around the edge of Lake Belvedere. There are some great spots for BBQs and picnic locations, so be sure to pack some lunch.

If you keep following the trail, you’ll come to the Badu Mangroves boardwalk before reaching the Bird Hide and Waterbird Refuge where you’ll see all kinds of unique birds and even a few shipwrecks in the bay. The entire track is 5.5 km and will take you 60 minutes at a leisurely pace. It’s ideal for adults and children aged 5 and up.

Where: Sydney Olympic Park

Getting there: From Central Station take the T1 line to Lidcombe (30 minutes). Then change platforms onto the T7 line and go direct to Olympic Park (5 minutes).

The trail is a low impact loop, which takes you past some of the oldest buildings not just in New South Wales, but in Australia. You’ll cruise past the likes of Old Government House built in 1799 and Elizabeth Farm which was constructed even further back in 1793.

You’ll also pass Queen’s Wharf where paddle steamers and overseas sailing ships landed to trade goods in the 19th Century. The pathway will also take you through Parramatta Park where you can stop, take a break and enjoy the leafy surrounds.

Where: Parramatta Heritage Trail

Getting there: From Central Station take the T1 line direct to Westmead Station which is where the trail begins. Travel time is 30 minutes

5. Thirroul to Wollongong Harbour

Wollongong is famous for its ocean views, so what better way than to spend an afternoon cycling past the sun, surf and sand?

One of the most scenic trails just south of Sydney starts at Thirroul and winds all the way through to Wollongong. Located just a short distance from Thirroul Station, head to Tasman Parade and follow the coastline through Bulli, Woonona, Bellambi, Towradgi, Fairy Meadow before finally ending up in Wollongong Harbour.

The path features numerous cafes and shops, plus there are several public toilets located along the route. Not only will you have uninterrupted views of the ocean, the route is entirely flat which makes it ideal for beginners and children. The trip from Thirroul to Wollongong Harbour is around 16 km.

For the more experienced riders, you can always continue on for a further 21 km. This will take you to Oak Flats, around Lake Illawarra and past the giant Port Kembla steelworks.

Where: Thirroul Station

Getting there: From Central Station take the South Coast line towards Kiama via Wolli Creek. Hop off at Thirroul Station to begin the trail. Travel time is 90 minutes.

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